Peabody & Arnold Prevails for Clients in Negligent Security Case

In a trial that lasted 7 days in Middlesex Superior Court, partner Elizabeth A. Houlding and associate Ian J. Gemmell prevailed on behalf of the firm’s property management and concierge staffing agency clients. The plaintiff alleged that the property management and concierge staffing companies failed to provide adequate security and failed to prevent an assault on the plaintiff at the property. Specifically the plaintiff argued that the companies’ staff had a duty to constantly monitor video surveillance equipment and failed to do so. Judge Fishman presided over the jury trial. Following a challenging trial which included video of the initial assault as well as testimony from the plaintiff, several employees of the defendants, and a premises security expert on behalf of the defendants, the jury returned a verdict finding both defendants not negligent.